The RIGHT way to clean a cut
How to clean a cut…the RIGHT way
From a simple scrape to a serious gash, there’s a lot to know about cleaning cuts properly. Following the correct steps is an important part of infection prevention. Dr. Chris Sulowski, deputy chief in the Pediatric Emergency Department (ED) at McMaster Children’s Hospital shares the right way to clean a cut.
Make sure you watch to the end of the video to learn when a visit to the ED is in order!
How to clean a cut
1. Run the cut under cool tap water
2. Apply pressure with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding
3. Check the wound once the bleeding has stopped
4. For scrapes or minor cuts, apply antibacterial ointment
5. Cover the cut with a clean bandage and let it heal
Visit your primary care provider if a cut…
- begins to look infected or give pus
- becomes painful or hot
- is coming apart
- triggers a fever
Visit the nearest urgent care centre if…
- a wound is jagged
- tissue is poking out
- the edges are gaping and won’t close
- gravel, glass, etc. is still caught inside